Catechesis at Messiah

Catechesis is the lifelong learning of the basics of the Christian Faith.  Lutherans traditionally embrace Luther's Small Catechism, along with Holy Scripture, as our primary sources for this instruction.

While parents are responsible for the catechesis of children, Messiah offers the following formal tracks of instruction to help prepare our young people:

Pre-Confirmation:  A parent-led course which prepares the child with basics needed to succeed in Confirmation Instruction.  (Should be completed prior to Confirmation)

• A Parent-Taught, designed as a 1-year course, but can be completed at the student's own pace
• Prepares the student for the Confirmation entrance exam
• A student may begin any time, but we recommend around age 8

First Communion Instruction:  A shorter study of the Small Catechism, with an emphasis toward preparing to receive the Lord's Supper.  (May be completed prior to Confirmation)

• An 11-week course to be completed in either the Fall or Spring
• Recommended for children of around 10 years old or older
• Students may skip this and simply wait until they complete Confirmation to receive Communion

Confirmation Instruction:  A two year, in-depth study of the Small Catechism, culminating in the "Rite of Confirmation" on the First Sunday in May.  

• Taught by a pastor or lay instructor at Messiah, usually on Tuesday evenings
• Traditionally has been for 7-8th graders but is open to any student who is "ready"
• Memory Work, Sermon Notes and Elder Reviews are recommended, but optional, and tracked by the parent.

Messiah Lutheran provides a number of ways to catechize.  Catechesis is an ongoing process throughout one's entire life.

How might one be catechized?

Sacrament of Baptism

Divine Worship

Sunday School

Intentional Study of the Bible

Confirmation

Rite of Confirmation

Divine Worship

Service of the Sacrament

Sunday School

Funeral Service (not your funeral)

Click on Family Resources here for resources to aid in catechizing your children from a very young age.

Here is a resource for preparing for the Sacrament of Holy Communion:

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